Letters to the editor

Wednesday, August 06, 2014 - Updated: 8:59 AM

Where's the freedom of speech?

To the editor:

I read with shock the article concerning salutatorian Rebekah Izzo being made to change her graduation speech because she mentioned God. What happened to freedom of speech? As long as there is no harassment, vulgar language, or threats involved, a person is entitled to express their views through "freedom of speech." And obviously, none of these three things were part of Ms. Izzo's speech.

No one in the audience was forced to agree with or forced to accept what Rebekah's feelings were. However, there were many in attendance at that graduation who did agree with her. Regardless, her original speech should have been allowed to be given.

The fact that the school has a class teaching evolution which Rebekah had to take certainly contradicts the school's "so-called policy." What a double standard we have here.

The people who invoke the state mandates for education need to wake up and smell the roses. You cannot rightfully talk out of both sides of your face.

I commend Ms. Izzo for honoring God and for what He has done in her life. Maybe if there was more of God in everyone's life, our country and the world would not be in the situations they are today. Maybe then, Satan would be defeated. Congratulations, Rebekah, and may God continue to bless you.

Margaret Piening,

Sprakers

Sorry the road is closed

To the editor:

This letter is to offer an apology to the many people that are now prohibited from using the thoroughfare roadway between Erie Terrace and Erie Street. I want everyone to understand that I feel bad the road had to be closed down. For about 12 years there has been an agreement among three parties to keep this road open for public use. Unfortunately at this time not all parties agree to this agreement any longer. I must respect those wishes. This roadway is now for the purposes for any customer doing business with Dave's Landscaping and Santos Construction only, not for public use.

Without all parties agreeing the liability of a roadway cannot be absorbed by Dave's Landscaping. Once again I apologize for all the inconvenience this may cause.